Baked Honey Sesame Chicken

Baked Honey Sesame Chicken isn’t just a dish—it’s a comforting tradition, a reminder of family dinners around a warm kitchen table, and a way to bring your favorite takeout flavors into your own home. The first time I made this dish, it was a snowy evening in late January. I remember the windows fogged with steam, my youngest tugging at my apron asking when dinner would be ready, and the smell of garlic and honey warming the air. That moment, simple as it was, rooted this dish in my memory forever.

This version of honey sesame chicken honors those cozy feelings but skips the deep-frying and takeout box. Baking the chicken keeps it lighter while still delivering a satisfyingly crispy texture, especially when coated in the irresistible glaze. The sauce—sticky, sweet, savory, with a subtle garlic kick—clings to each piece, caramelizing beautifully as it bakes. Sesame seeds sprinkled on top add a nutty finish and visual charm that makes this dish perfect for both weeknights and gatherings.

In many Asian-American households, honey sesame chicken is a beloved staple. It’s the dish ordered when you want something sweet but hearty, comforting but lively. While it may not be rooted in traditional Chinese cuisine, it has become a fusion classic, representing how food evolves across cultures and generations. This homemade version is easier than you might think and twice as satisfying—because it’s made with love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthier than takeout: Baked, not fried—but still crispy and rich.
• Unbelievably flavorful: The sauce is a perfect harmony of sweet, salty, and savory.
• Family favorite: Great for kids, picky eaters, and anyone who loves Asian-inspired dishes.
• Perfect for leftovers: Makes an excellent next-day lunch or freezer meal.
• Customizable: Adjust the sauce, add veggies, or pair it with rice, noodles, or salad.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

For the chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup cornstarch
• 3 large eggs
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• ¼ cup canola oil

For the sauce:

• ¾ cup honey
• ¾ cup soy sauce
• ½ cup ketchup
• ½ cup light brown sugar, packed
• ½ cup rice wine vinegar
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1 tsp garlic, minced
• 1 Tbsp cornstarch (optional, for thicker sauce)
• 1 Tbsp water (to mix with cornstarch)
• Sesame seeds, for garnish

How to Make Baked Honey Sesame Chicken

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat and prep
   Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). Lightly grease a large baking dish and set it aside. This is a good moment to turn on some music or involve the kids—this recipe is great for sharing the kitchen.
2. Season and bread the chicken
   Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Set up two shallow bowls—one with cornstarch, and the other with whisked eggs. Dip each piece into cornstarch first, then into the eggs, ensuring they’re evenly coated. This double-dipping method is what gives you that golden, crispy shell once baked.
3. Quick fry for texture
   Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Flash fry the chicken in batches, turning until each piece is lightly golden but not cooked through. This step locks in flavor and sets the stage for that irresistible crispy texture once baked.

1. Transfer to baking dish
   As each batch finishes frying, move the pieces into your prepared baking dish, spreading them out evenly.
2. Make the sauce
   In a mixing bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, rice wine vinegar, sesame oil, and garlic. If you prefer a thicker sauce, dissolve 1 tablespoon of cornstarch in 1 tablespoon of water and whisk into the sauce.
3. Bake the chicken
   Pour the sauce evenly over the chicken. Bake uncovered for 45 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes to ensure every piece is well-coated and caramelized. You’ll notice the sauce thicken and bubble as it cooks, infusing the chicken with deep flavor.
4. Finish and garnish
   Once golden and sticky, remove the chicken from the oven. Sprinkle with sesame seeds just before serving. Serve warm with rice, steamed broccoli, or stir-fried noodles.

Helpful Tips

• Cut chicken evenly to ensure uniform cooking—smaller pieces work best.
• Use parchment paper under the baking dish for easy cleanup.
• Double the sauce if you like your chicken extra saucy (it’s also great over rice).
• Add vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers in the last 15 minutes of baking.
• Make ahead by prepping chicken and sauce in advance—bake just before serving.

Details

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour (including flash frying and baking)
• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings
• Category: Dinner, Main Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Asian-American
• Diet: Nut-Free

Notes

• Swap chicken breast with boneless thighs for a juicier bite.
• For less sugar, reduce honey and brown sugar slightly, and replace ketchup with tomato paste plus a dash of apple cider vinegar.

Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)

• Calories: 622 kcal
• Protein: 38 g
• Carbohydrates: 81 g
• Sugar: 58 g
• Fat: 16 g
• Sodium: ~1,250 mg (based on soy sauce used)

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free soy sauce (like tamari) and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

What can I serve with this chicken?
Steamed jasmine rice, fried rice, stir-fried noodles, or a crisp Asian slaw pair beautifully.

How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat in a skillet with a splash of water or extra sauce over medium heat until warmed through. You can also use the microwave for convenience.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheat: For best results, reheat in a skillet to maintain texture.

Related Recipes

If you loved this baked honey sesame chicken, try these comforting dishes next:

• A Sweet and Tangy Journey: Oven-Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken
• Honey Garlic Baked Cauliflower
• Hot Honey Peach Wings
• Sticky Honey Gochujang Chicken

Conclusion

There’s something beautifully reassuring about a dish like baked honey sesame chicken. It’s simple to make, yet full of bold, nostalgic flavors. Every bite offers that tender-crisp contrast, cloaked in a golden glaze that feels like home. Whether you’re reliving takeout nights or creating new food traditions, this recipe brings people together over warmth, flavor, and a touch of honeyed sweetness. It’s the kind of meal you make once—and then crave again and again.